Thiruvananthapuram, 01 March (H.S.):Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has invited the public to attend the inauguration of the first phase of the Kalpetta Township, constructed by the Kerala government for families affected by the devastating Mundakkai–Chooralmala landslides. The first phase, comprising 178 houses, is to be inaugurated on Sunday at 11 a.m., with the Chief Minister presiding over the ceremony.
In a Facebook post, the Chief Minister described the occasion as a “historic moment watched by the world” and termed the township “a new saga of survival.” Recalling the tragic landslides of July 30, 2024, which deeply affected Wayanad and the entire State, he noted that the disaster had shaken the collective conscience of Kerala. At the time, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government had assured that the affected region would be rebuilt to world-class standards, drawing strength from the unity and determination of the people. “This is the inspiring moment when that promise becomes reality,” he said, adding that the township stands as a symbol of resilience and hope.
The Kalpetta Township project envisions a total of 410 houses with modern amenities, expected to provide shelter to more than 1,662 people. In the first phase, 178 houses have been completed and are to be handed over to families who completely lost their homes in the disaster.
Designed in line with Wayanad’s terrain and climatic conditions, the houses are single-storey structures built over 1,000 square feet, with foundations strong enough to support an additional floor in the future. Each unit includes a master bedroom, two additional rooms, a sit-out, living area, study room, dining space, kitchen, and storage area. The township has been realised through the coordinated efforts of various government departments, agencies, and workers.
In addition to housing, the township will feature internal roads, a health centre, an anganwadi, a public market, and community centres. Facilities such as a laboratory, pharmacy, outpatient services, vaccination and observation rooms, shops, play areas, a multipurpose hall, library, sports club, and an open-air theatre are also planned as part of the project.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
